Action Aid UK are trying to urgently raise £250,000 to help the vulnerable people in and around Goma to find water, food and shelter after fleeing their homes as violence engulfs the Democratic Republic of Congo.

With thousands of people being forced into leave everything behind, families are now living in churches and on the street, and they are hungry, thirsty and in need of medical help. Fleeing families also need other essentials like blankets, cans to store water and pans for cooking.

Over three million people have been killed in the fighting over the last 10 years.

Action Aid UK has worked with people in the camps around Goma for over five years, with the ceasefire now allowing staff to go back to work and help up to 10,000 people in the coming days with vital supplies.

To respond to the people of Congo, Action Aid need more funds to help those most at risk.

Help Action Aid this Christmas with a Charity Gift

You can also help raise funds with the Gifts in Action scheme, giving you the chance to buy an unusual and thoughtful gift whilst also helping poor communities.

From as little as £6 you could provide 128 cocoa seedlings for families in Ghana, or for £174 you can purchase a donkey and cart for a village!

You will also receive a pop up card with your fantastic gift, which is a great way to put something back into the world whilst also giving your friends and family a real conversation starter.